Block Walls can last years if properly taken care of.
However, there are many forces at work that if ignored will cause damage to
block walls. One of the biggest threats is water/moisture damage. In our
community, homeowners are responsible for any damage that may be caused to block
walls by their actions. Whether intentional or not. There are many simple
solutions that can be used if there is water damage occurring to your block
walls.

Retaining Walls:

Retaining walls are designed to support the weight of
backfill material to allow a home's lot to be level. In D'Arcy ranch, we have
several homes with retaining walls (Mostly along the common areas). When these
walls were constructed, they were most likely treated to protect against
moisture damage. However, after years of use, the protection can wear off or
become damaged. This will allow water to seek its way through the wall and cause
damage. Prevention is a lot less expensive than repairs.

The first step to determining whether there is a
problem is to inspect your wall. Look at the backside of your wall. If there are
water/moisture stains or wet spots, there is damage occurring to your wall. The
steps to fix it will be determined by where the water damage is. If it's above
where the ground level is in your yard, it's probably a matter of adjusting
watering/irrigation system. If it's below the ground level, it could be more
significant.

First and foremost, keeping water away from the wall
will go a long way in protecting the wall from damage. An internet search on the
subject suggests the following:

1) Adjust sprinklers so that
the spray does not hit the wall. 2) Do not run irrigation
lines close to the wall. 3) Repair any leaks that may
occur as soon as they happen. 4) Do not over water. 5) Create a border along the
wall using material such as gravel. 6) Make sure not to change
the drainage pattern that was designed into the lot. 7) In severe cases, the best
option may be a moisture barrier between the earth material
at the block wall. This can be
an involved process that will require professional input.

These are only a few ideas. If you have water damage
occurring to your wall, we suggest you contact a licensed contractor for advice.
The information provided is offered as a guide only and is not intended as
professional advice. Solutions to damage are specific to the kind of damage
occurring. Searching the internet can also provide valuable information.

Privacy Walls:

Privacy walls are walls that separate two properties.
The ground on both sides of the wall are at the same (or near same) level.
Damage to these walls is very easy to prevent and can usually be fixed with
little effort. Most of the damage that occurs to privacy walls is improper
irrigation/sprinkler system or placing landscape material against the wall
without properly sealing it.

If your privacy wall borders a right of way or common
area, look at the wall from the outside of your yard. If it's stained or wet,
you probably need to adjust your watering.

1) Adjust sprinklers so that
the spray does not hit the wall. 2) Do not run irrigation
lines close to the wall. 3) Repair any leaks that may
occur as soon as they happen. 4) Do not over water. 5) Create a border along the
wall using material such as gravel. 6) Make sure not to change
the drainage pattern that was designed into the lot.

If you have put in any landscaping that is elevated
above the original grade, seal the wall to prevent damage. There are several
products available. The professionals at your nearest paint or Home & Garden
store should be able to help you determine the best product to use.

This article is designed to help homeowners determine
if they may have water damage occurring to their property. It is not intended to
provide a fix for every problem. If you believe you may have damage, please seek
the advice of a professional.